Queensland Police Arrest Kempsey Prison Escapee

Search continues for 2nd man

One of two men who escaped from the correctional facility in Kempsey last week has been arrested in Queensland.

Police in Queensland arrested the 35 year old man after he allegedly travelled to the state after escaping on Friday.

It will be alleged the man broke into a house in Clontarf, north of Brisbane, before confronting the residents with a hammer around 4pm on Monday.

The man allegedly assaulted a 71 year old man occupant with the hammer, before smashing a window.

It is alleged he then stole a handbag and mobile phone before fleeing in the resident’s Toyota Camry.

Police tracked down the stolen vehicle before arresting the man at nearby Kippa Ring around 6pm.

The 71 year old man sustained leg injuries as a result of the assault.

The 35 year old male was charged with one count each of armed robbery, burglary and commit an indictable offence, assault occasioning bodily harm, wilful damage, unlawful use of a motor vehicle and possessing dangerous drugs.

He is due to appear in the Brisbane Magistrates Court today.

NSW Police will apply for his extradition once the matters are finalised in Queensland.

Meanwhile, police are continuing to appeal for public assistance to help locate the second escapee, Kurt Reynolds.

Mr Reynolds is described as being of Caucasian appearance, 187cm tall, of a large build, with brown eyes, short brown hair and a receding hairline.

He was last seen travelling in a stolen black 2005 Toyota Camry Sportivo sedan, with NSW registration plates JM677.

Police urge members of the public not to approach him, but instead call Triple Zero (000) immediately.

Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.